Effects of Topically Applied Rhododendron Molle (Blume) G. Don. Extract on Mouse Hair Growth Under Mild Chronic Stress

The study evaluated the effects of Rhododendron molle (Blume) G. Don. extract on hair growth in six-week-old female C57BL/6 mice under mild chronic stress. Mice were divided into six groups (n=8/group) and treated topically for 3 weeks. Results showed that the Rhododendron molle extract groups (RMD and RMDS) had greater hair follicle depth (562.0 μm and 499.2 μm, respectively) compared to control and minoxidil groups. The RMD group had the lowest number of mast cells (1.4) and the highest stem cell factor (SCF) expression, while substance P expression was lowest in the RMD group. These findings suggested that Rhododendron molle extract could promote hair growth and reduce hair loss by increasing hair follicle length and growth factors while decreasing mast cell and substance P expression. Further research was recommended to understand the mechanism of action.